Free Beaches Near Bari

If you are looking for free beaches around Bari, there are many options that might surprise you. These beaches offer free access and an authentic atmosphere, away from the chaos of the most crowded beach clubs. Here is a list of ten beaches worth discovering.

1. Cala Porto – Giovinazzo: This small beach is located in the historic center of Giovinazzo. The water is clear, and there are flat rocks where you can sunbathe. The atmosphere is calm and family-friendly, making it ideal for a relaxing day. You can reach it by train from Bari in about 25 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk.

2. Prima Cala – Molfetta: One of the most well-known beaches in Molfetta, with a mix of sand and pebbles. The seabed is shallow, and there is a well-maintained free area. Its proximity to the train station makes it perfect for a trip without a car.

3. Cala Arena – Giovinazzo (south area): This rocky beach is wild and not crowded. The water is clean and transparent, ideal for swimming. There are no services available, so it’s advisable to bring everything you need. You can get there by train or car, taking about 30 minutes from Bari.

4. Cala Sant’Andrea – Molfetta (industrial area): This little-known cove is surrounded by rocks, offering a very quiet environment. It’s perfect for those seeking silence and who don’t mind walking a bit. It’s best to go with water shoes, and there are parking spots along the road.

5. Spiaggia La Salata – Bisceglie: This pebble area features clear water and a natural atmosphere. There are no bars or beach clubs nearby, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation. You can reach it by car in about 40 minutes from Bari, with free parking along the roadside.

6. Cala dell’Archibugio – Molfetta: This small bay with low rocks is perfect for sunbathing in peace. It’s not very well known, which makes it even more appealing. The access is a bit hidden, so it’s recommended to wear beach shoes. You can get there by car or train to Molfetta, followed by a walk.

7. Cala Crocetta – Bisceglie: This rocky beach is quiet and scenic, great for snorkeling. There are parking spots nearby, and it takes about 45 minutes to reach from Bari. It’s important to bring water and shade, as there are no services available.

8. Spiaggia di Lido Lucciola – Santo Spirito: Located north of Bari, in the Santo Spirito district, this beach has free sections between the beach clubs. The sand is dark, and the seabed is shallow. You can reach it by car or by metropolitan train, followed by a short walk.

9. Spiaggia di Cala Ruffano – Bisceglie (south area): This cove has sand mixed with rocks and is less crowded but very picturesque. Access is free, and there is parking along the coast road. It’s ideal in the morning when the sun illuminates the sea spectacularly.

10. Spiaggia del Prete – Giovinazzo: This rocky beach is hidden between two promontories. The water is clear, and it remains uncrowded even in summer. It’s perfect for those seeking calm and an authentic landscape. You can reach it by train to Giovinazzo, followed by a 15-minute walk.

To reach these beaches, you can use your car along the SS16 or regional trains. Some beaches are also accessible by extra-urban buses. It’s advisable to bring water, food, and an umbrella, as many beaches do not have bars or refreshment points. Finally, prepare for a more wild and natural experience, without sunbeds or lifeguards, but with the authentic beauty of the Apulian coast.